Employees that are injured at work may receive compensation for the wages they lose if they are unable to come back to work due to their injury. This form of payment is known as wage-loss payment. Read on to learn more about wage-loss payments in Pennsylvania.
What are Wage-Loss Payments?
In Pennsylvania, the wage-loss benefits an employee can receive are equal to about two-thirds of their average weekly wage. The minimum compensation rate is the lower 90% of the employee’s average weekly wage or 50% of the statewide average weekly wage. It is also important to note that these payments can be offset for 50% of Social Security benefits, the employer-paid part of the individual’s retirement pension, severance pay, unemployment compensation, or other earnings. Employees should be aware that Pennsylvania law does not allow for an increase in these payments due to the cost of living. You should reach out to an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to discuss your individual situation.
Who Can Obtain Wage-Loss Payments?
An injured Pennsylvania employee can receive wage-loss payments if they are disabled for more than seven calendar days, including the weekends. The benefits are paid on the eighth day after the injury occurs. When the employee is unable to return to work for 14 days, they can receive retroactive payment for their first seven days.
If you are injured at work, it is important to report the incident immediately. If the injury is reported immediately and the claim is accepted by the insurance carrier, the employee should receive their first check within 21 days of their absence from work. Afterward, the payments should be received on a regular basis.
How Long do Wage-Loss Payments Last?
When evidence is shown to the employer or insurance carrier that the employee returned to work at a wage equal to or more than their prior earnings, wage-loss benefits can be terminated. Other reasons why wage-loss payments may stop can include:
- The workers’ compensation judge stops benefits after a hearing
- The employee signs a supplemental agreement or an agreement to stop workers’ compensation
- The 500-week period of partial disability status expires
If you have any questions or concerns about wage-loss payments in Pennsylvania, contact our firm to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
Contact AllianceMeds
If you have become the victim of an on-the-job injury, it may be beneficial to speak with an attorney and the doctor that is treating you to determine how to make the process as easy as possible. AllianceMeds understands that a workplace accident can be challenging and is here to help. We will deliver your medication to your door using overnight delivery and cover any out-of-pocket expenses that may arise. If you have any questions about how we can help, contact AllianceMeds today.